Aerospace / Aviation Industry
Since the 1930s, North Bay’s strategic location has supported aviation excellence for both National Defence and commercial operations. What began as a training facility with a gravel runway has evolved into YYB North Bay Jack Garland Airport — featuring a 10,000-foot runway, modern terminal facilities, and a growing Airport Industrial Business Park supporting aerospace, aviation, and advanced testing activities.
Owned by the City of North Bay and operated by the North Bay Jack Garland Airport Corporation, the airport works in close partnership with municipal and industry stakeholders to support long-term aviation and industrial development.
➡️ See the Airport Industrial Business Park Infographic (PDF)
Aerospace Industry
Ontario a key player in the aerospace industry and North Bay holds a prominent position as a home to Voyageur Aviation Corp group of companies, and Canadore College's School of Trades and Technology campus.
- 30+ aviation and non-aviation businesses operate on airport lands
- 500+ skilled employees work across aerospace manufacturing, MRO, training, and operations
- On-site post-secondary aviation training supports a steady talent pipeline
North Bay offers a competitive alternative to congested Southern Ontario airspace, with infrastructure capable of supporting virtually any aircraft type or aerospace undertaking.
Workforce & Training Advantage
Aerospace training continues to be a critical component of the Aerospace Industrial Park development plan. Canadore College’s airside training facility has trained thousands of aerospace professionals, offering programs in:
- Aviation & avionics maintenance
- Structural repair technology
- Rotary-wing and flight training
This direct connection between industry and education provides businesses with immediate access to skilled talent — on site.
Flight Test Corridor & Specialized Operations
YYB is internationally recognized for aerospace testing and evaluation.
Since 1996, North Bay has participated in the International Runway Friction Index Testing Program alongside partners including Transport Canada, NASA, FAA, and NRC.
- YYB supports specialized testing through:
- A 10,000 ft primary runway and 4,500 ft secondary runway
- Dedicated ground-test areas
- Operational schedules that can accommodate intensive periods of runway use
- weather conditions that (seasonally) can be representative of almost any airport in the world
- reserved flight-test airspace
➡️ View the Flight Test Corridor Map
Aerospace Careers
Interested in joining North Bay’s aerospace community?
➡️ View career opportunities with Voyageur Aviation Corp Group of Companies Job Opportunities
